Veteran actor Anant Nag is set to add one of Indian cinema’s highest honours to a career spanning more than five decades.

The Government of India has announced that Nag will be conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024 for his contribution to Indian cinema and his illustrious cinematic journey. The announcement was made on September 16 on the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee.

The award will be presented at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony on September 22, 2026, in Kevadia, Gujarat. For the 77-year-old actor, however, the announcement came as a surprise.

From Theatre to the Big Screen

Reflecting on his journey, Nag recalled his early years on the stage in Mumbai and his transition into films. He compared his journey to sailing a small boat into a vast ocean. He also remembered Kannada cinema legend Dr Rajkumar, the first Kannada actor to receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. Describing Rajkumar as a giant ship navigating that ocean, Nag humbly compared himself to a small wooden boat finding its way.

He expressed gratitude to his theatre mentors, directors, co-stars and collaborators who shaped his remarkable career.

“This Honour Belongs to Kannadigas”

Nag said the appreciation of audiences has always been one of the most meaningful measures of his work. He dedicated the national honour to Kannadigas, acknowledging the people, filmmakers and cultural environment of Karnataka that have been an important part of his journey.

His career has crossed languages and genres, with performances spanning Kannada and Hindi cinema, as well as theatre and varied film styles. The Information and Broadcasting Ministry described his contribution as one that has enriched India’s cultural landscape and inspired generations of artists.

Congratulations Pour In

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Nag, highlighting his versatility, artistic brilliance and the depth and authenticity he brought to his roles. The Prime Minister described the honour as “richly deserved.”

Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw and Minister of State L. Murugan also congratulated the veteran actor, highlighting his long and varied contribution to Indian cinema.

On September 22, the celebrated actor will formally receive the honour—a moment that will mark another milestone in a cinematic journey that has connected generations of audiences with memorable characters and stories.